Derry Mayor Brenda Stevenson welcomes the crew of the Derry Clipper to the Foyle Marina. Photo: Joe Boland (North West Newspix)
SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan congratulated the crew of the Derry “LondonDerry” Doire as it arrived in the city after winning the transatlantic leg of the Clipper Round the World Race.
Mr Durkan, who joined thousands of people who lined the quay to welcome the crew, said said he was “glad” to be able to share in “all the delight and excitement” of seeing the boat come into Derry as victors of race 14 from New York.
Mr Durkan said: “This has been a fantastic achievement by the crew on top of all the impressive efforts throughout this world race.
“I was very proud to meet and commend Sean McCarter and the crew.
“It was also quite clear in speaking with the organiser of the race, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, that he is also full of admiration for Sean and how Derry has taken the Clipper Race to its heart and celebrates it better than anyone else.
“The buzz, the atmosphere and the warmth of welcome that all the crews will receive will do the whole city credit and add again to our visitor reputation.
“This buzz doesn’t just come from the boats. A successful city event like this doesn’t just float on the river – so we need to commend Derry City Council and all of the other partners for the sound planning and hard work that enabled all this enjoyment.
“We must also thank local businesses who have offered concessions and freebees for all of the visiting crews.”
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